TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The first upgraded Kang Ding-class frigate, the Chengde, began sea trials on Monday.

The ship departed from Kaohsiung Port's second harbor in the morning, accompanied by tugboats. Navy officials said the Chengde is expected to resume combat duty by the end of the year, per CNA. Beginning next year, the Navy will upgrade the remaining five Kang Ding frigates at a rate of one per year to bolster combat capabilities.

The Navy has allocated NT$43.16 billion (US$1.45 billion) for the modernization program.

The upgraded frigates will be equipped with the domestically developed Huayang vertical launch system, capable of carrying 32 Sea Sword II surface-to-air missiles. They will also feature the BAE Systems Type 997 Artisan radar, significantly improving detection and tracking.

Kang Ding-class frigates are based at Zuoying Naval Base in Kaohsiung and are tasked with air defense, anti-submarine warfare, escort missions, blockade-breaking, and joint surface combat operations in the Taiwan Strait.

In addition to the upgrades, the Navy has contracted Jong Shyn Shipbuilding Company to build one air-defense and one anti-submarine light frigate prototype by 2026. Once complete, the Navy plans to construct 10 more light frigates.